What type of consent is necessary for administering medications to children in care?

Written parental consent is necessary for administering medications to children in care because it ensures that parents or guardians are fully informed and have explicitly authorized the administration of medication. This process protects the child's health and wellbeing, as parents are knowledgeable about their child's medical history, allergies, and previous reactions to medications.

Obtaining written consent also provides a clear record that can be used for legal and accountability purposes in case of any issues that may arise. It's a fundamental aspect of respecting parental rights and making sure that all medication administration adheres to established safety and health protocols within child care settings.

Verbal consent from the child is inappropriate since children are typically not in a position to make informed medical decisions. The concept of needing no consent if the staff member deems it necessary undermines the importance of informed consent and can lead to potential legal and ethical issues. Lastly, seeking consent from another staff member does not hold any legal standing and does not replace the need for parental authorization.